Lp(a) in Serum

Lp(a) is a largely genetically determined, independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It stays stable throughout life, so a single measurement is usually enough.

Also known as:

Lipoprotein(a)

S-Lp-a

Lp(a) ranges

Interpret your result

"Normal" lab range for Lp(a) is between 0 and 75 nmol/L:

According to Peter Attia, Lp(a) should be below 66 nmol/L:

According to European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS), Lp(a) should be below 125 nmol/L:

125

According to American Heart Association (AHA/ACC), Lp(a) should be below 125 nmol/L:

125

According to OptimalDX, Lp(a) should be below 18 nmol/L:

Optimal range

Optimal range for Lp(a) appears to be below 60 nmol/L:

125

500

Why this optimal range?

Association between Lp(a) and cardiovascular outcomes is causal and continuous (optimal is as low as possible).

Unit conversion caveat: Converting Lp(a) between mg/dL and nmol/L is only approximate since it varies between individuals. Values can differ from a direct measurement by up to ~30%. While nmol/L is the preferred measurement (better prognostic value), mg/dL is still used by many labs. The conversion ratio used here seems to be the most supported by the research.

What a high value may mean:

Common reasons for high Lp(a):

Genetics,
Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism),,,
5%–20% decrease after replacement therapy
Growth hormones therapy(2x increase)
Pregnancy (2x increase),
Nephrotic syndrome (3-5 x increase vs. control),

How to lower Lp(a):

No Lp(a) specific drug is approved yet
Several drugs are in late-stage development. It is important to focus on eliminating all other ASCVD risk factors.

About the site author
My personal mission is to extend human lifespan by collectively adding 1 million years to people's lives.
That’s why I made this site 100% free, no sign-up, no email. Just instant results.
Zsolt Szabo
Precision Health Consultant for Longevity Clinics

Please send me relevant research and feedback.

Any feedback is welcome at .

I am particularly interested in research on biomarkers associated with all-cause mortality and on defining optimal reference ranges.